I am a twenty-year-old victim
of a sexual assault. Because
of lack of evidence and the
fact that my case is weak, a
rapist goes free. The crime
has been reported to the police
and my statement and accusation
will remain on public record.
However, for fear that the DA
will not try my case, or worse
yet, that the court will dismiss,
I can not prosecute. My hands
are tied... what an injustice.
To be raped once and then again
by the system. Sincerely, A
concerned victim... JMR - Boston,
MA

I'm so sorry to hear about
your situation, which is, unfortunately,
not uncommon. As I work with
Gloria Steinem, Ms.
Magazine and the Ms.
Foundation for Women--all
of whom/which are a magnet for
women in similar situations--I
know that many women have, too,
experienced 'double rapes.'
The main problem is that we
still have a justice system--and
particular judges--that don't
understand 1.) the reality of
rape and 2.) that it is even
a problem. The good news is
that there are a few programs
that are working to educate
judges and police departments
about how often rapes really
happen and under what circumstances.

I'm sorry to hear about your
situation and even more sorry
that I can't offer any helpful
words. Good luck -- and thank
you for sharing so that others
potentially won't have to experiece
this same double burden.